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Trekking in December in India brings a different kind of adventure, as snow covers the Himalayas, mist shrouds trails in the Northeast and Western Ghats, and frozen rivers reshape familiar paths. The cold air improves visibility as temperatures drop, making distant peaks stand out more clearly. High-altitude trails remain quiet with little activity, and the absence of crowds allows for uninterrupted landscape views. Additionally, the season brings unique sights, from frozen waterfalls to crisp mountain views, making each trail a refreshing and memorable journey.
Top 10 Places For Trekking In December In India
Here are the best places for trekking in December in India, perfect for adventure and scenery:
1. Kedarkantha Trek
The Kedarkantha trek, one of the popular places for trekking in December in India, turns into a snowy wonderland in December, with white trails leading to its 12,500-foot peak. The 20-kilometre walk takes you through tall pine and oak trees, with amazing views of the Himalayas, including Swargarohini. December brings cold temperatures between -10°C to 5°C, creating the perfect setting for snow trekking. Additionally, one of the best parts is camping at Juda Ka Talab, where the frozen lake and thick forests make the experience magical.
Major Attractions: Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, Sankri Village, Juda Ka Talab
Ideal Trip Duration: 5 – 6 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station
2. Brahmatal Trek
Photo: Sangharsh Lohakare / Unsplash
The Brahmatal trek, reaching 12,100 feet, is a great mix of adventure and beauty. The trail passes through forests full of rhododendron trees and open grasslands before reaching the frozen Brahmatal Lake. December covers everything in snow, turning it into a white paradise with clear views of the Trishul and Nanda Ghunti peaks. Starting from Lohajung, this 24-kilometer trek passes through forests, open ridges, and snow-covered landscapes, with camping spots at Bekaltal and Brahmatal providing essential rest points along the way.
Major Attractions: Bekaltal Lake, Lohajung Village, Views of Mount Trishul and Nanda Ghunti
Ideal Trip Duration: 6 – 7 days
Nearest Airport: Pantnagar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Kathgodam Railway Station
3. Dayara Bugyal Trek
Photo: Saiteja Varma / Unsplash
Dayara Bugyal is one of India’s biggest high-altitude meadows, standing at 12,000 feet. In December, it becomes a wide, open snowfield, making it one of the best places for trekking in December in India. The 25-kilometre trail starts from Barsu and takes you through thick oak and maple forests before opening up to a huge stretch of white grasslands. Temperatures range from -5°C to 8°C, making it a great time to enjoy the winter scenery. This trek also gives you a chance to experience the local Garhwali culture, adding a cultural aspect to the journey through nature.
Major Attractions: Barnala Tal, Raithal Village, Views of Bandarpoonch and Black Peak
Ideal Trip Duration: 4 – 5 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station
4. Sandakphu Phalut Trek
The Sandakphu Phalut trek, at 11,930 feet, is famous for its clear views of four of the world’s highest peaks—Everest, Kanchenjunga, Lhotse, and Makalu. December offers clear skies and cool temperatures between -2°C and 10°C, making it one of the best times to visit. Covering 32 kilometres from Manebhanjan, the route passes through Singalila National Park, where you might spot rare red pandas. The trek crosses between Nepal and India, with cosy tea houses along the route offering comfortable places to rest.
Major Attractions: Singalila National Park, Tumling Village, Kalipokhri Lake
Ideal Trip Duration: 7 – 8 days
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
5. Kuari Pass Trek
The Kuari Pass trek, standing at 12,516 feet, is known for its stunning views of Nanda Devi, Dronagiri, and Trishul peaks. The 33-kilometer journey begins at Joshimath and passes through thick oak forests, wide meadows, and shepherd trails. December brings fresh snow and temperatures between -8°C and 5°C, creating a beautiful winter landscape. Camping at Tali and Kuari top is one of the best parts, as the sunset over the snow-covered mountains is truly unforgettable, making it one of the best places for trekking in December in India.
Major Attractions: Auli Meadows, Gorson Bugyal, Views of Nanda Devi and Dronagiri Peaks
Ideal Trip Duration: 6 – 7 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar Railway Station
6. Chadar Trek
Photo: Joshi Milestoner / Unsplash
The Chadar Trek is one of the most unique winter treks, as it follows the frozen Zanskar River at 11,123 feet. Covering 60 kilometres, this trek requires careful planning and a strong spirit, as temperatures can drop as low as -30°C. The river starts freezing in December, making it the perfect time to witness this rare natural phenomenon. The trek takes you through deep gorges, past old Buddhist monasteries, and into remote Ladakhi villages, giving you a glimpse of the region’s culture and beauty.
Major Attractions: Nerak Waterfall, Zanskar River, Tibb Cave
Ideal Trip Duration: 9 – 10 days
Nearest Airport: Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, Leh
Nearest Railway Station: Not accessible by train; travel is only possible by air.
7. Nag Tibba Trek
Photo: Rimjhim Agrawal / Unsplash
Nag Tibba, or the “Snake’s Peak,” is a short but rewarding trek near Mussoorie. Standing at 9,915 feet, it is one of the best winter treks for beginners. The 8-kilometre trail winds through oak and rhododendron forests, offering breathtaking views of Bandarpoonch and Swargarohini peaks. As you move through the trail, you’ll pass traditional Garhwali villages where locals follow age-old customs. Beyond the villages, the route winds through forests and open landscapes, where you can spot a variety of birds and animals before ending the day camping under a sky filled with stars.
Major Attractions: Nag Tibba Temple, Views of Swargarohini and Bandarpoonch Peaks, Pantwari Village
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Nearest Railway Station: Dehradun Railway Station
8. Deoriatal-Chandrashila Trek
The Deoriatal-Chandrashila trek is perfect for those who love nature and a bit of history. The trail passes by the ancient Tungnath temple, the highest Shiva temple in the world, which is believed to be linked to the Mahabharata. Starting at Sari village, the 21-kilometre route winds through thick forests before reaching the peaceful Deoriatal Lake, which beautifully reflects the surrounding snow-covered peaks. In December, the whole area is covered in snow, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 8°C. The trek ends at Chandrashila Peak, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a sense of accomplishment for trekkers.
Major Attractions: Deoriatal Lake, Tungnath Temple, Chandrashila Summit
Ideal Trip Duration: 5 – 6 days
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun
Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar Railway Station
9. Triund Trek
Photo: Shashank Verma / Unsplash
At 9,350 feet, the Triund trek is one of the easiest and most rewarding winter treks in the Dhauladhar mountains. The 9-kilometre trail from McLeodganj takes you through rhododendrons and oak forests, with stunning views of Kangra Valley and snow-covered peaks. December sometimes brings light snow, and the temperatures stay between 2°C and 15°C, making it a comfortable winter hike. The trek is also well-marked and offers plenty of small cafes and camping spots, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced trekkers.
Major Attractions: Triund Hill, Views of Dhauladhar Range, McLeod Ganj
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Kangra Airport, Gaggal
Nearest Railway Station: Pathankot Railway Station
10. Arunachal Pradesh Lower Altitude Treks
For those looking for a less challenging winter trek, the lower-altitude Arunachal Pradesh trails between 3,000 to 8,000 feet are a great option. The routes around Ziro Valley and Talle Valley take you through untouched forests, tribal villages, and beautiful landscapes. December brings cool and comfortable weather, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. These treks allow you to explore bamboo forests, orchid gardens, and the unique culture of the Apatani tribe, offering a peaceful and enriching trekking experience.
Major Attractions: Ziro Valley, Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Apatani Tribal Villages
Ideal Trip Duration: 7 – 8 days
Nearest Airport: Lilabari Airport, North Lakhimpur
Nearest Railway Station: Naharlagun Railway Station
Trekking in December in India brings a mix of adventure and breathtaking winter landscapes. Snow-covered trails lead through dense forests, across frozen lakes, and up to panoramic mountain peaks. Some routes, like Chadar Trek, test endurance with icy river crossings, while others, like Nag Tibba, offer a gentler walk through quiet meadows. For those planning a winter trek, TripXL makes the journey smoother with reliable travel options.
Cover Photo: Saikat Ghosh / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
